2011 Branson Green Initiative Awards

The 2011 Branson Green Initiative Award winners were announced and presented with awards at a Board of Aldermen meeting at City Hall. Four award winners were selected for their impressive sustainability achievements and commitment to Branson's sustainability efforts.

Big Cedar Lodge for their long-term commitment to recycling and conservation.

Big Cedar Lodge promotes an awareness and preservation of the natural environment the resort exist within. The resort promote re-use by donating used linens and mattresses to area women’s shelter and fire victims. Big Cedar Lodge received the Good Earthkeeping Award from the American Hotel and Lodging Association. The resort is amember of the Missouri Department of Natural Resources “Certified Green Lodging Program.”

Hiltons of Branson for their commitment to the environment.

In 2010, Hiltons of Branson and the Branson Convention Center became a “Certified Green” hotel under the Missouri Hotel and Lodging Association. Hilton has an environmental policy which is applied to all aspects of their organization. Hilton recycles laser toner cartridges, all paper, cardboard, plastic and metal cans. Energy saving products are used whenever possible from compact fluorescent bulbs to low-flow toilets and shower heads.

Ben Kinel for being an example of community and environmental stewardship.

Mr. Kinel efforts have resulted in a beautiful Veterans Garden at W. State Highway 76 and Roark Valley Road. His extensive involvement with Gift of Green has added to natural beauty of Branson. Mr. Kinel has been involved with the Branson Tree Board for numerous years and is a supporter of the Board’s landscaping efforts throughout the City of Branson.

Dr. Rick Davis for his insight and continued support of the Branson landscape.

Dr. Davis has been a resident of Branson for nearly 30 years. He has served on the Board of Alderman and the Planning & Zoning Commission. When Dr. Davis became an alderman in 1991 he initiated discussions to purchase property for a public park owned by Mr. Lyle Owen. In 1998, after years of negotiating to keep the property natural and undeveloped, the City purchased almost 130 acres of the Owens property. This property is known today as Lakeside Forest Wilderness Area.